Queen Mary Summer School

Introduction to Particle Physics

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Overview

This course will explain the basic concepts in particle physics, starting from the basic blocks of matter as we know them before looking at the fundamental forces and experimental methods used in ongoing investigations in the field. You will learn about the elementary particles and fundamental forces acting between them and understand the behaviour of all known matter, from very small-scale particles to the very large scale of the universe and its composition. We will also explain main experimental techniques, from particle accelerators to particle detectors and statistical data analyses. We hope that by the end of the programme you will be able to confidently reassure others that the LHC will not destroy the world!

Course content is subject to change.

Course aims

This course aims to:

  • build your basic knowledge of particle physics: its elementary particles and fundamental forces
  • help you understand how particles and forces build matter as we know it
  • help you understand how particles and forces can be studied in experiments: eg the basic functioning of particle accelerators and detectors
  • train you to critically interpret media reports on particle physics
  • provide the opportunity for you to gain experience of writing and talking about particle physics at a level either appropriate to a scientist or a layman.

Teaching and learning

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, laboratory work, and workshops.

Learning outcomes

You will learn/develop:

  • a basic knowledge of particle physics and experimental techniques in the subject
  • how to review the scientific methods and tools exploited in the field and their connections to a wide set of applications
  • an understanding and curiosity for ongoing research and its future developments

You will develop:

  • an awareness of the mathematical, statistical, and computational tools used in the field
  • effective skills to understand basic scientific literature, and discuss and communicate research outcomes
  • communication skills and tools in the context of a scientific topic
  • a critical engagement with subject-specific knowledge, especially in the context of the interpretation of media sources
  • refined communication and writing skills
  • a global perspective of the subject area and its social context.

Fees

The Queen Mary Summer School costs: £1,650 per session, which includes tution and social programme. 

We offer a 10% discount to:

  • Students and staff from partner institutions
  • Alumni
  • Current Queen Mary students 

Accommodation

The cost of accommodation is approximately £500 per session. For further information, please visit our  page.

Additional costs and course excursions

There may be additional costs for field trips, such as entry to exhibitions, which will be in the region of £10-20.
All reading material will be provided online, so it is not necessary to purchase any books.

Please note there is no deposit payment required for the Queen Mary Summer School.

Entry requirements

To join our Summer School, you should have completed a minimum of two semesters’ study at your home institution.

We welcome Summer School students from around the world. We accept a range of qualifications:

  • if your home institution uses the four-point Grade Point Average (GPA) scale, we usually require a 3.0 GPA
  • if your home institution uses the letter scale, you will need to have a B+

We welcome international qualifications and we consider every application individually on its academic merit.

English language requirements

All of our courses are taught and assessed in English. If English isn’t your first language, you must meet one of the following English Language requirements in order to join the Queen Mary Summer School:

  • If you hold a degree from a majority English speaking country plus Canada you may use this degree to satisfy the English language requirements for entry, provided the degree was completed no more than 5 years before the start date of the course to which you are applying.
  • IELTS, 6.5 overall or higher, with at least 6 in all sub scores
  • TOEFL Internet Based Test we require a minimum of 92 (L21; S23; R22; W24)
  • China UEE (University Entrance Exam) -  110
  • CET 4 – 550 or CET 6 – 490
  • PTE Academic 62
  • Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English 176 60- grade C (old marking system)
  • Applicants with an alternative qualification should check it is equivalent to the above or contact us at summerschool@qmul.ac.uk

How to apply

Applications are open! 

Have a question? Get in touch, one of the team will be happy to help.

Application deadline: 26 May 2019.

What do I need to apply?

You’ll need to upload the following documents together with your online application:

  • your current academic transcript or your record of studies to date
  • evidence of your English Language proficiency, if your first language isn’t English 
  • a written statement explaining why you'd like to attend the Summer School
  • a copy of your passport

What do I do next? 

  • check that you meet the eligibility criteria
  • work with your home university adviser to select the courses you want to study at Queen Mary and ensure they are approved/can transfer back to your own institution
  • gather your transcripts and your proof of language proficiency (if applicable)
  • fill out our online application form

What happens then?

  • we make a decision on your application within 5 days of your application date and send you an offer letter
  • you accept our offer
  • apply for a visa (if you need it)
  • book your flights to London**
  • read all of our pre-departure emails carefully before you arrive
  • pack and get ready for your stay in London
  • arrive in London and move into your new home with us on campus
  • join the welcome programme and start your course
  • complete all your welcome programme/orientation tasks
  • enjoy your time at the Queen Mary Summer School

** Please don’t connect or enter the UK via Ireland, as there are visa restrictions.

Teaching dates
Session One: 1 July - 19 July 2019
Course hours
150 hours (of which 45 will be contact hours)
Assessment
In-class presentation and essay

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